The Complete Serger Handbook - Review
Book author: Chris James
Edition reviewed: 1998
Chapter headings
-
Getting to Know Your Machine
-
Threads, Threads and More Threads
-
Which Stitch is Which
-
Threading and Rethreading
-
Take the Tension out of Tension Theory
-
Investigating Serger Controls
-
Mastering Serger Techniques
-
Unraveling Knit Nonsense
-
Rolled Hem Riot
-
Flatlocking-Function and Fun
-
Oh No! My Serger is Sick!
-
Care and Feeding of your Overlock Machine
With over 230 full color illustrations including a full 24 on threading and rethreading, all at a useful size, Chris has written the book you need alongside your serger when you're learning to serge and use your machine. Chris writes in an easy-to read style and has packed this 150 page guide with down-to-earth meaningful and useful advice, explanations and tricks.
In taking each aspect of serging one-by-one, Chris uses each chapter to build your knowledge so that you can become a competent serger without months of trial and error.
I picked out some of the chapters below to demonstrate how Chris covers the subject area so successfully.
Threads, Threads and More Threads
Chris's down-to-earth advice is amply demonstrated in this section where she discusses a breadth of topics from how to choose thread, including matching the care codes to the type of item you want to make, to the specific thread needs of sergers and how many spools you *really* need.
Which Stitch is Which
This section covers the wide variety of stitches sergers can produce, includes color pictures detailing each one so that you can recognize them and explains the uses and advantages of each stitch.
Threading and Rethreading
This is one of my favourite chapters not just for the detailed explanations and diagrams covering threading but mostly for the quick re-threading technique which you'll kick yourself for finding later rather than sooner! Chris doesn't just mention the technique but explains what to look out for while you're doing it in case the thread gets stuck and explains what to do if it does.
Unraveling Knit Nonsense
Chris covers the subject of serging knit fabrics comprehensively. Knit fabrics are extremely popular, versatile and there are a fantastic number of wonderful prints available.
However, there are a number of gotchas for the unwary - Chris covers them here so that you can be successful first time - not left regretting you wasted a yard of fabric and ended up with a wretched item you weren't proud of.
Recommendation
This book is not designed for the experienced serger who has already used a few different machines (although you may still pick up some new tips), for the beginner, this is an essential guide and reference. I heartily recommend this book alongside your serger purchase. It will make the experience more fun, your results quicker and you'll soon find yourself teaching your friends techniques when they are having serger trouble!
Editions
(c) 2007 Jonathan & Scarlet. www.vintage-sewing-machines.com
|
